In the wake of the fire’s theft, looting, and even armed robberies are becoming commonplace. This has left Maui residents reeling from shock and frustration. Many blame the inadequate supply distribution and lack of information for the rampant crime wave.
Jeremy Aganos, the owner of the surviving restaurant Coconut Caboose, vividly described the scene as “utter chaos,” with people desperately searching for food, water, and shelter.
The chaotic circumstances left many people without food, water, or shelter. And has prompted some residents to take uncharacteristic action, and others emphasize that some acts of theft are borne out of desperation.
Barrett Procell, who lost his home to the fires, offers a sympathetic perspective. He argues that those resorting to looting are driven by pure survival instincts.
The escalation of crime has also led to sharper criticism of local leadership. And many are accusing them of inaction.
Searching for the dead
The deadly wildfires have already claimed nearly 100 lives, marking it as the deadliest catastrophe in the US in over a century. Sadly, the death count is expected to be much higher. And estimates are that the death count could eventually climb to over 1,000.
